Returning to Darwin, Leah Clarke rediscovered how visually exciting small ephemeral structures like green ants, spider webs and grass seeds were.
In this delightful series of work on paper, you will be taken on a journey of colour and line which captivates the delight Clarke feels when observing green ants constructing nests and the fascination of a brittle starfish washed up on Casuarina beach.
“ I walk daily, around Lee Point and stroll along Casuarina beach. I am constantly enchanted by the forms, shapes, and colours I see, in treasures that I discover, in the sand at my feet, or in the branches above my head” Leah Clarke, 2021

‘Ways of Seeing: Miya/Significant Plants – Beginnings’ showcases works from five culturally diverse, female artists – Glynis Lee, Angelina Lewis, Juwayning Lorraine Williams, Linda Yarrowin, Nena Zanos - created during a printmaking project at Wagait Beach. Artworks reflect each artist’s personal connection to chosen plants. Accompanying stories and video communicate cultural knowledge.

The viewer is exposed to obscurities of the universe including artwork, ‘Solar Flare’ depicting a solar explosion also, ‘Meteor Shower’ and ‘Supernova’. Energy and passion are radiating from the paintings, highlighting intensity. In contrast, ‘The Wormhole’ and ‘Galaxy’s Breath’ depict the timelessness and constancy of galaxies and the beyond.
Ray Hayes moved to the Northern Territory in the early 1980’s to work in Yirrkala and then Darwin. He was a passionate advocate for Human Rights, Labour Rights, Land Rights and the Environment. Ray assisted Yothu Yindi in obtaining the initial funding for band. He advocated and assisted Aboriginal people throughout his working life at Bagot Community and with the Larrakia Nation.

Elemental is Darwin Visual Arts’ first exhibition of 2025, showcasing the diverse talents of our artists as they explore the elements in both literal and metaphorical forms. This inspiring collection presents vibrant and thought-provoking works that celebrate the forces shaping our world and the essence of existence.